The South Fulton City Council has revoked Mayor Kobi's access to city buildings and vehicles and shut down his office's budget due to concerns over unauthorized use of city resources and noncompliance with policies. The mayor, escorted out by South Fulton Police, is under scrutiny after it was revealed that taxpayer funds were used for his international trips and other expenses.
According to FOX 5 Atlanta, City officials stated, "The City of South Fulton remains committed to upholding the highest standards of governance, transparency, professionalism, and accountability in service to our residents. In response to concerns regarding unauthorized use of city resources and noncompliance with established policies, City of South Fulton City Council has exercised its authority to take corrective actions, protecting taxpayer resources."
Mayor Kobi, whose badge has been deactivated, told FOX 5 Atlanta, "No one in the city is talking to me. When my badge stopped working and then the police showed up at my office."
In an 11Alive report, police bodycam video shows officers informing the mayor that he is no longer allowed access to his office or a city vehicle as directed by the city manager and police chief. City officials are focused on maintaining governance standards despite the mayor's claims of political mudslinging and promoting South Fulton on trade missions.
Mayor Kobi acknowledged some personal use of the travel budget but stated the expenses had been exaggerated. In an interview on the Big Tiger & Jazzy McBee Morning Show on V-103, Mayor Kobi clarified that the expenses were not $26,000, explaining that the travel costs spanned over a two-year period.
The City Council's actions have raised questions about the length of the restrictions on the mayor's authority. While Kobi plans to attend a community event, The Truth About Data Centers, his future role within the city remains uncertain. The City Council has also directed city employees to immediately cease and desist all interactions with the mayor.
